What will Burnham do?

Andy Burnham might arrive in Downing Street on Monday promising a fresh start, but what will his government actually do? A change of leader means little unless it produces a change in policy.

In this video, I set out the questions that should define a Burnham premiership.

For example, will he abandon restrictive fiscal rules, embrace modern monetary theory, tax wealth more fairly and pursue full employment? And will he restore democratic control over interest rates and put public wellbeing ahead of growth for growth’s sake?

The questions extend far beyond economics, though. Britain needs council housing, stronger public services, a Green New Deal, investment in the National Grid and decisive action on failing utilities. It also needs properly funded healthcare, education, local government and social security.

Burnham would also have to confront difficult choices about migration, civil liberties, electoral reform, political donations, defence, Palestine and Britain’s relationship with the United States.

A new prime minister should not be judged by presentation, personality or promises. He should be judged by the decisions he makes and the interests he chooses to serve.

So, what will he do? By his actions, we will know the man.